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Tomatillo

The tomatillo, also known as the Mexican husk tomato, is a small, green, and slightly tart fruit encased in a delicate papery husk. A key ingredient in Latin American cuisine, tomatillos originate from Mexico and are a staple in various traditional dishes, such as salsas, stews, and sauces. They belong to the nightshade family, which also includes tomatoes, eggplants, and peppers. Tomatillos can be eaten raw, but are more commonly used cooked. Their tangy, mildly sweet flavor enhances the complexity of dishes like salsa verde and enchiladas, bringing a depth of flavor that is unique to this versatile ingredient. The fruit is also rich in vitamins A and C, fiber, and antioxidants which offer both nutritional benefits and a delightful taste for home cooks and consumers alike.
#81
IN FRESH VEGETABLES
32
CAL / 100G
$0.16
AVG / OZ
tomatillo
75%
CARBS
13%
FAT
12%
PROTEIN
Tomatillo FAQ
Tomatillos are a staple in Latin American cuisine, widely used for their unique flavor profile, which can range from tart to mildly sweet depending on their ripeness. Common mistakes when cooking with tomatillos are using them as you would a regular tomato or skipping the crucial step of removing the husk and washing the sticky substance that coats the tomatillo. Cleaning them properly helps prevent an undesirable soapy taste. To fully enjoy tomatillos, consider roasting or simmering them to mellow out the acidity and bring out their unique flavor. Grinding them into a sauce or salsa allows them to pair well with other robust flavours. Experiment with tomatillos in non-traditional dishes too, perhaps substituting them for tomatoes in certain recipes for a unique twist.
Do I need to cook tomatillos before using them in a recipe?
What is that sticky substance on my tomatillos?
How do I choose the best tomatillos?
Can I substitute tomatillos for green tomatoes?
Why are my tomatillos so sour?
What can I do with tomatillos besides salsa?
Are tomatillos hot?
Can you eat tomatillo skin?
Can I use canned tomatillos?
How do you reduce the tartness of tomatillos?
Expiration & Storage Tips
When does tomatillo expire?
Unopened, tomatillos can last for about 1-2 weeks at room temperature. If stored in the refrigerator, they can last up to 1 month. Once cut or cooked, tomatillos should be refrigerated and used within 1 week. If you choose to freeze your tomatillos, they can last up to 1 year.
How do you tell if tomatillo is bad?
Fresh tomatillos in their husks should be firm and show no signs of shriveling or mould. Overripe tomatillos may feel soft and mushy under the green husk. If there's a strong foul odour or if there's visible mold on the fruit, it's best to throw them away. When cut open, the inside should be green and the seeds white. If the inside is yellow or brown, or the seeds have darkened, it's possible the tomatillo has gone bad.
Tips for storing tomatillo to extend shelf life
• To maximize the shelf life of tomatillos, store in a plastic bag in the crisper drawer of your fridge. • To prep them for freezing, remove husks, wash tomatillos with mild soapy water, dry, and then freeze on a baking sheet before transferring to airtight containers. • Leave the husk on until you're ready to use your tomatillos, as it provides a natural protective barrier against bacteria and light damage. • Though tomatillos can be stored at room temperature, they will last longer when refrigerated. • Avoid piling up tomatillos which can cause pressure and make them ripe quicker. Try to keep them in a single layer in storage whenever possible.
EXPIRES WITHIN
11 - 21
DAYS
Health Info
Macros
1g
CARBS
0g
FAT
0g
PROTEIN
Allowed on these diets
LOW FAT
HIGH CALCIUM
VEGETARIAN
KETO
PALEO
WHOLE 30
MEDITERRANEAN
LOW CARB
VEGAN
LACTOSE FREE
GLUTEN FREE
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